Disabled Woman Banned from ALL Asda Stores Over Service Dog Dispute
Elanor Maxey, a disabled woman who depends on her service dog Genie, claims she’s been banned from every Asda store in the UK. The row kicked off after an argument at the Asda Broadway store in Bexleyheath, caught on video and blasted across TikTok, where it’s clocked over 3 million views.
Security Guard Demands Fake ‘Service ID’ and Dog Licence
The viral clip shows a security guard refusing Elanor and Genie entry, demanding a “service ID” and a dog licence – both of which are NOT legally required in the UK. Elanor said: “Today, Genie and I have now been officially banned from every Asda in Britain simply because I didn’t present her ‘Service ID’—something that doesn’t exist.”
She also shot down the guard’s request for a dog licence, revealing these haven’t been needed for decades. “This is outdated nonsense,” she said.
Accused of Breaking Data Protection Act For Filming Encounter
The situation escalated when Elanor was accused of breaching the Data Protection Act for recording the staff. She defended herself, insisting she had to document the ordeal to fight for her rights. She had just popped in to grab a sandwich after feeling dizzy. “I was already unwell and just needed something quick,” she said.
Elanor praised bystanders who stepped in during the conflict: “I’m so thankful there were brave people who tried to advocate for me. Even though the store ignored them, it’s great to know kind souls will stand up when human rights are trampled.”
Asda Apologises but Ban Stands for Now
An Asda spokesperson apologised for Elanor’s experience. “This falls short of the welcoming culture we strive for at Asda,” they said. “Assistance dogs are welcome in all stores, and we are urgently reminding our colleagues of this policy.”
The Equality Act 2010 protects disabled people’s rights, making it unlawful to refuse access to those with assistance dogs except in rare cases. But whether Asda’s ban is legal can only be decided by a court, considering the circumstances.
Incident Sparks Debate Over Disabled Rights and Service Dogs
The saga has triggered a storm online, with many urging better understanding and respect for disabled people’s rights — especially when it comes to their service animals.
